Are you a fencer who will be flying? If so, then you should consider some tips to make your trip as smooth as possible. We learned in kindergarten that airplanes, buses and cars are different modes of transportation. However, as adults we need to consider some of the logistical differences, before packing our fencing gear before flying. If you are flying to another region, another country, or another continent, here are some steps to help make the experience as smooth as your fencing moves:
1. Buy the right fencing bag
Buying the right fencing bag for you may be more challenging than it may seem at first. You have many options to consider, including:
· color
· durability
· features
· size
· style
To help narrow down your choices, make sure to consider your particular needs. As a general rule, you should select a large fencing bag with wheels, if you are flying to a fencing competition. Such a bag will be able to store your sword(s), protective gear, and anything else you need for your journey. One practical matter to consider is that hauling all of that gear will be quite heavy! Thus, choosing a fencing bag with wheels will make it easier to transport the bag.
2. Consider packing your gear in a hard travel case
One of the hassles of flying is needing to pay airline baggage fees. Airlines can charge you if your baggage exceeds the maximum weight allowed. However, if you are exclusively flying to a fencing competition, then you probably will not have much luggage, besides your fencing equipment and enough clothes for a week or two.
However, the problem is that airlines tend to charge extra baggage fees, for luggage that exceeds certain dimensions. The dimension applies to the luggage’s length, width, or height. Considering the length of fencing swords, it is highly likely that their lengths will exceed an airline’s maximum baggage length.
The good news is that airlines allow an exception on luggage dimensions, for hard golf travel cases. Unfortunately, soft fencing cases are not (yet) included in this exclusion. Thus, if you do a fair amount of traveling with your fencing gear, then you should consider purchasing a hard golf travel case. This will allow you to avoid extra baggage fees. However, keep in mind that if you still exceed the airline’s maximum baggage weight, you will still have to pay some sort of fee.
3. Verify that your fencing gear is completely secure in your luggage
This is important, to prevent your fencing gear from becoming destroyed while flying to your competition’s destination. Double-check everything before the airport processes your baggage, to ensure that all of your equipment is safe in its bags. Fencing gear is somewhat expensive to replace!
When flying to a fencing competition, make sure to follow these aforementioned tips. It will help to ensure that you and your fencing gear get to your destination safe and sound. Then you can focus on your main objective-winning the competition!
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